Approaches to Realism

About this programme

Proceeding from the observation that mimesis, or the representation of reality, is one of the oldest issues in the history of literature, this course aims to introduce you to central arguments that have evolved around realism, broadly conceived. What is meant by realism? How does realism relate to the real? Is realism a style, a literary period, a political attitude, or a rhetorical trick? These and related questions, including also postmodern perspectives, will be addressed in the course. The readings are divided between literary texts and critical commentary that ranges from Plato and Aristotle to contemporary theory; each seminar will be structured around an authoritative intervention (or set of interventions) in the debates on realism. As the course progresses, you will be encouraged to formulate independent positions in relation to these debates. Ultimately, the intention is to enable a textured and historically grounded appreciation of realism as an open question rather than a closed book. Registration is mandatory and will be open in Ladok for admitted students between 5 and 16 August. You need to register on time to confirm and keep your place. More detailed course information will be available to registered students on the learning platform Canvas. The teaching comprises seminars. Active participation is expected from students in all teaching formats in order to pass the examination. Students will often work with different tasks and assignments during the seminars in preparation for the examination. Apart from scheduled teaching, time will be spent reading cours